How do I know which bootcamp is right for me?

Please carefully read 'Which bootcamp is right for me?' and the detailed information on each level of bootcamp. Our bootcamps are progressive, so we generally recommend starting with the Bronze bootcamp. If you are still not sure, contact us.

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Why are the bootcamps split into different levels?

We will be working as one group most of the time, therefore it is important that all the dancers are of a similar level and understanding.

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I attend Alchemy Dance Academy, which level should I do?

Level 3 - Bronze. Level 4/5 - Silver, unless you are relatively new to the level or Alchemy in general, in which case we recommend you start at Bronze. Speak to Marchant & Davina if you are unsure.

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How do I book?

Visit the page of the Bootcamp you are interested in. Ensure you read all the information given and terms & conditions before proceeding to booking. You will find the link to booking at the bottom of each bootcamp page. You can pay online with credit/debit card or Paypal. Full details are on the booking pages.

 

How much do the bootcamps cost?

£250 per person, based on 2 people sharing a twin/double room. This includes full bootcamp program, 2 nights half board hotel accommodation (breakfast & dinner). Supplement applies to single occupancy of double room. A limited number of non-residents passes are available on certain bootcamps.

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Where are the bootcamps held?

This year the Bronze bootcamp will be held in Winchester. The Silver bootcamp will be held in Bournemouth. See the Venues & Travel page for full details.

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Can I purchase day/weekend passes without accommodation?

We have arranged rates with the hotels for a certain number of guests. Therefore most places are fully residential. This year (2022) we have a limited number of non-residential places on the Bronze bootcamp.

 

Do I need to book with a partner?

No. We will rotate partners during all workshops which involve partnerwork. However, as we always attempt to keep the ratio between men & women equal, we do reserve a certain amount of 'couples' places on each bootcamp to help keep the numbers balanced. A 'couple' is a man & woman booking together, you don't need to share a room.

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What time does the bootcamp start/end?

On the Friday we have our welcome meeting followed by the first class at approximately 8-9pm. However, you can check-in to the hotel from 3pm and dinner from 6.30-7pm is included in residential packages. 

 

Most bootcamps finish by 5pm on the Sunday.

 

You can view outline timetable here. You will be sent a final timetable a couple of weeks before your bootcamp.

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Can I video the workshops?

We will give opportunity for you to take video footage of certain sequences used during workshops. Permission will be given at specific times during the bootcamp. We ask that you do not film during workshops and that all video footage is for your personal use only (not to be posted online).

 

I have done a bootcamp before, should I move up a level this time?

Not necessarily. It depends on your grasp of the material in the previous bootcamp, how you coped with the pace, and your dance development since. While the core techniques remain the same on each bootcamp, the material changes so every bootcamp is different. 
If you are unsure, please contact us.

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I didn't get my booking in on time, will you be doing more bootcamps?

Absolutely! We are now into our 13th year and have already held more than 30 bootcamps. We continue to have an amazing response to the bootcamps at all levels and are constantly planning ahead, so join our mailing list and we will keep you updated.

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What is Salsa Surgery?

On certain bootcamps you will have the opportunity to book a short individual 'appointment' with Marchant & Davina. This is specifically to get personal feedback on leading/following. This is an optional aspect to the bootcamp. There is also plenty of opportunity over the weekend to ask questions and get help with workshop content.

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What will I need on the bootcamp?

Comfortable dancewear. Lots of t-shirts, stretchy training bottoms, jazz shoes, and dance heels for ladies. In the evenings people generally wear casual evening clothing.
Sweater/jumper for seated sessions.
Also bring a mat/towel to lie on for stretch sessions. Swimwear for leisure facilities where applicable.
Notepad & pen to jot down notes.

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Are meals are included in the price?

Breakfast and dinner is included in the bootcamp price (for residential places). Lunch is available to purchase at the bootcamp venues. Alternatively, all bootcamp venues are within walking distance of town centres with many cafes and shops.

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Why are there no On1 Bootcamps?

In 2017 Alchemy went entirely On2 - our regular classes & bootcamps. On2 is our timing preference and we decided we wanted to teach On2 in all the classes and bootcamps we organise. We are specialists in Conversion to On2 and have helped countless dancers make the transition over the years. We encourage everyone to come and try it with us! We still teach and dance On1 when we guest teach at salsa events. We also can come and teach On1 workshops and bootcamps in your area. Please contact us for more information.

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Why are some Bootcamps by invitation/application only?

This applies to the Gold bootcamp. From our years of teaching experience we have found that a significant number of people who attend advanced classes are not at that level, frustrating for the true advanced dancers in the class. As the bootcamps are for a whole weekend and with a small group, the Gold level by invitation/application only - as we do at our regular school. This ensures that everyone participating is of the required level and has a good understanding of the Alchemy methods & techniques. You can learn all of this on the other level bootcamps. 

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